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As we become more aware of our environment and more aware of the products that we are putting into and onto our bodies, natural and homeopathic products are taking the cosmetic industry by storm.

It is likely you’ve been made aware of new skincare and cosmetic companies popping up with all natural and organic products. Of course, just because they say they are, does not necessarily make it true. That is why you should educate yourself and why it is so important. After learning what mineral foundation is, what ingredients are in it and what its benefits are, you can decide if mineral makeup cosmetics are the best choice for you.

What Is Mineral Makeup?

Mineral makeup is designed from all naturally occurring ingredients. Originally, it was often recommended by dermatologists to women with sensitive skin, rosacea, post operative, laser and other procedures because of its intrinsic skin soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Powder makeup is made of finely milled minerals. It can provide sheer or opaque coverage, depending on the formulation and application. However, it still allows natural skin radiance to show through, so you won’t have the dreaded mask look. It is normally free of fragrance and preservatives. Minerals cannot feed bacteria, so there is no danger of spoilage, thusit needs no preservatives. It does not spoil or go bad. It is very good for oily skin because it has several oil- absorbing components.

It is usually applied with a brush and is typically shown to be buffed into the skin. This technique forces the makeup into your pores, which is never a good thing. A technique that works with better quality mineral makeup (which we’ll discuss later) is to dust the makeup on, instead of buffing it. If a brush irritates your skin, you can also use a non-latex or flocked sponge. Application can be done either wet or dry.

What Are The Ingredients?

This is the most important part. Learning what is in your makeup will give you the ability to choose what will meet your needs best. These are the ingredients you will most likely come across.

Mica – A natural glitter. Provides shimmer and sparkle.

Titanium Dioxide – A white natural sunscreen and anti-inflammatory agent. It is highly reflect, with only a diamond being higher, and thus minimizes fine lines and some skin discolorations.

Sericite – A colorless mica that can be used to cut the opacity of Titanium Dioxide and also works as an oil absorber.

Zinc Oxide – A natural sunscreen providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

Cornstarch/ Rice Powder- Cosmetic grade- An oil humectant (draws oil out of the pores). Can make acne worse as it is a source of food for bacteria.

Kaolin Clay – Natural oil-absorption.

Iron Oxides – Natural pigment- very opaque. Used for tinting cosmetics.

Ingredients To Avoid

These ingredients are also common, but can cause problems so are best to avoid.

FD&C Dyes- Derived from coal tar.

Talc/ Various Powders – Common fillers- can cause respiratory problems.

Ferric Ferrocyanide – Controversial because of its suspected toxicity.

Bismuth Oxychloride – Known skin irritant- causes itching, rashes and breakouts. Especially prevalent when the wearer sweats.

Carmine – Crushed beetles.

What Brand Should I Buy?

Well, if you’re familiar with mineral makeup, it’s likely you’ve seen the infomercials. After further research you’ll find these companies use controversial ingredients, and charge quite a bit for their products.

There are several good mineral makeup companies out there that provide a much better product at a more affordable price, as well as a superior customer experience. They also offer samples, which the larger companies do not. You will get to try the makeup (unlike in the drugstore!) for a fraction of the cost before you buy it. They do not have expensive advertising and packaging to pay for, so the savings are often passed on to you.

Alden Whytte has been involved in the creation of many health, beauty and consumer products. Not all mineral makeups are created equal. Make sure you purchase and use the ones that not only make you beautiful, but are the best for your skin. Liquid mineral make up is gaining ground because it is less mess and many women would prefer to use a liquid foundation. Visit http://mineralmakeup.name to learn more about new liquid mineral makeup options.